India's newest airline increases 737 order book to 76 jets
The growth strategy continues at pace.
Boeing and Akasa Air announced an order for four additional 737 MAX 8 jets at the Paris Air Show.
Fledgling carrier, Akasa Air, launched operations in 2022 with its first 737 MAX 8 and has rapidly grown its market share and fleet to 19 aeroplanes across 16 destinations to support the fast-growing market in India.
With the order of four additional aircraft, the Indian carrier's order book comprises 76 jets, which include 23 737 MAX 8s and 53 high-capacity 737 MAX 8-200 aeroplanes.
"As the world's fastest-growing airline, we are excited to add four more Boeing 737 aeroplanes into our fleet, taking our initial order of 72 aircraft up to 76 jets which will be delivered over the next four years. In addition to supporting our rapid domestic expansion, these aeroplanes allow us to take full advantage of the category-leading 737 aircraft with its unparalleled range, as we prepare our foray into international routes," said Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air. "The fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions of the 737-8 allows us to remain focused on sustainable operations, while also providing our environmentally conscious passengers with a more comfortable way to fly. Sustainability is at the core of our business, and we strive for more opportunities to reduce our impact to the environment."
Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing said: "This follow-on order by Akasa demonstrates the market-leading capabilities of the 737 MAX in the world's fastest-growing commercial aviation market. The efficiency and range of the 737 MAX 8 support Akasa Air's plan to expand domestic and regional networks."
The 737 MAX family provides Akasa Air with greater range and fuel efficiency, reducing fuel use and carbon emissions 20% compared to older-generation airplanes. In addition, the 737 MAX is a quieter aeroplane with a 50% smaller noise footprint.
